Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento - 2nd District Newsletter

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OC Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento, 2nd District

July 22, 2024

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

Last week, we received exciting news that financial rating agencies increased the county's credit rating to AAA, the industry's measure for the highest credit quality and lowest risk of default.

The AAA rating demonstrates our continued commitment to responsible fiscal governance that helps our departments continue delivering essential programs, resources, and services efficiently and cost-effectively.

The rating agency highlighted the county's strong budgetary performance during the past two years, a substantial increase in general fund reserves, and a strong local economy.

This rating increase means we can continue providing essential services to our most vulnerable residents, including seniors, working families, and unhoused neighbors. The increase also positions us to continue services that improve county residents' daily quality of life and provide services to all of our communities.

The county's efforts in healthcare, social services, and public safety will continue to be at the core of the work of our dedicated staff who serve residents.

I want to recognize the exceptional work of Michelle Aguirre, who has served as our County Chief Financial Officer over the last decade. Under her leadership, we have seen significant growth and stability.

I have complete confidence in Michelle, as she takes on the role of Acting CEO, while we continue our search to fill the executive position. Her contribution has been invaluable, and we are grateful for her dedication.

Vicente Sarmiento
Supervisor, Second District
Orange County Board of Supervisors

Yasie Goebel
Chief of Staff

Rosemary Contreras
Operations Manager

Robert Villegas
Communications Advisor

Richard Santana
Community Outreach Manager

Manuel J. Escamilla
Senior Policy Advisor

Vasila Ahmad
Policy Advisor

Carlos Valenzuela
Policy Advisor

Damiana Armendariz
Executive Assistant

Thank You to Our Part-Time Staff
Joese Hernandez, Jessie Lopez, Jonathan Rivas, Matthew Vuong

Thank You To Our Interns
Leisa Komyo, Briana Olallo, Diego Sanchez, Justin Soto

Stay Updated!

	SupervisorSarmiento.com

	Vicente.Sarmiento@ocgov.com

	714.834.3220

Team Sarmiento Attends Opening of New Art Exhibit at Mexican Consulate in Santa Ana

Lat week, my policy advisor Carlos Valenzuela, presented a certificate of recognition to the artist at the opening launch of a new art exhibit at the Mexican Consulate in Santa Ana.

The event included a resource fair and the exhibit shows the vibrancy of the work of Mexican artist Maricruz Sibaja. The “Natura” exhibition brings her paintings to Santa Ana and is a great opportunity for OC residents to see her work. Consulate hours are Monday to Friday from 8am to 2 pm and the exhibit is free to the public.

Carlos Valenzuela and Consul Audrey Rivera Gómez present a certificate to artist Maricruz Sibaja.

Second District Team Joins Second Harvest Foodbank OC in Bringing in the Crop

Team Sarmiento had the opportunity to visit Second Harvest Food Bank Orange County’s fields and work alongside volunteers to help pick bell peppers that will make their way to over 200 organizations and food distribution locations supported by Second Harvest in Orange County. Thank you to Second Harvest staff and all of the volunteers and supporters for their work in feeding OC.

Visit their page to learn more about the work of Second Harvest, how you can help support this important effort for families facing food insecurity, and how to volunteer.

Second Harvest staff and Second District team join volunteers in the harvest.

Services For Residents:

OCTA Fair Express Serving Riders Again This Year

The Orange County Transportation Authority will bring back the popular OC Fair Express bus service on weekends. The buses will provide direct service from four locations throughout Orange County to the OC Fair from 10 a.m. to midnight on Saturdays and Sundays, from July 20 to Aug.18.

Adults can ride OC Fair Express for just $4 round trip and can avoid parking hassles. Rides are free for youth riders 18 and younger with no pass required. All other regular OC Bus passes will also be accepted to ride OC Fair Express. Click here for more information.

Residents Can Dispose of Hazardous Waste at No Cost

National Drive Thru Day will be held on July 24^th. We invite Orange County residents to drive up and dispose of household hazardous waste items for FREE at any of the County's four Household Hazardous Waste Collection Centers.

The www.OCRecycleguide.com is an online resource for residents. If you have questions about how to get rid of items, but are not sure where they should go, you can search an A-Z list of recycling options.

Debris and Trash Clean Up Services Available to Residents

If you live in an unincorporated area, that is maintained by Orange County Public Works, you can request services including trash and debris clean up here:

Residents recently reported debris along Hewes Ave and requested clean up in the area. OC Public works responded to the request and the debris was removed from the location- see the before and after photos below.

Don’t know if you live or work in unincorporated areas, follow this link and enter your address on the top right hand corner of the map to find out if your home is serviced by the County or a local city.

OC Animal Care Services

After sponsoring the successful spay and neuter clinic this year, I wanted to remind our residents about the year-round services available from OC Animal Care.

Animal Care promotes responsible pet ownership; health and safety of people and animals and spay/neuter programs as well as providing temporary shelter and medical care for "lost" owned or stray animals and opportunities for adoption of these animals. They house and provide medical care for impounded dogs, cats and exotic animals. OC Animal Care also assists owners in finding their lost dogs.